14
Random
I was more than ready for the final decision. With trembling hands, I watched as my mother returned to her seat, taking the long way around the table to avoid Aunt Erica and Uncle Akira. It was almost funny; win or lose, my mother’s vote was the most important thing to me in the world at that moment.
She sat at the judging table with her usual poise and grace, stiffly ignoring Akira as if unable to see him glaring at her, but then she turned to me and smiled as Principal Sam took to the mic.
“Ladies, gentlemen, students and faculty. Now that everything’s calmed down, it’s time to announce the final votes of our esteemed judging panel. Professor Hayama, please begin.”
“My vote is for Prayikina,” he said. “With your use of spices, you’ve made me truly proud.”
Hillary Arato we
